10 Best Things to Do in Saipan – Northern Mariana Islands

Let me tell you why Saipan stole my heart – this tropical paradise packs more adventure, beauty and culture into one small island than I ever imagined possible. 

I’ll never forget my first glimpse of those turquoise waters meeting emerald jungles, or the way the sunset painted the sky in impossible shades of pink and gold over the Philippine Sea.

Whether you’re a thrill-seeker like me who lives for heart-pounding dives into underwater caverns, a beach bum searching for that perfect stretch of sand, or a history buff fascinated by poignant WWII sites, trust me – this island has something that will speak to your soul.

Here’s what I discovered most travelers miss about Saipan: Beyond the postcard-perfect beaches (which absolutely live up to the hype), there’s a whole world of authentic experiences waiting. Some of my favorite memories include:

• Swimming alongside sea turtles in crystal-clear lagoons
• Hiking to viewpoints where I could see three islands at once
• The chills I got exploring powerful historical sites
• Finding hidden beaches where I was the only person for miles

What makes Saipan special in my book? It’s got all the beauty of more famous tropical destinations, but without the crowds.

I’ll never forget having world-class dive sites practically to myself, or stumbling upon empty beaches even in peak season. The Chamorro culture here feels warm and authentic in a way that’s getting harder to find elsewhere.

A hard-earned tip from my travels: Don’t make my first mistake of thinking Saipan is just a quick stopover. I planned for 3 days and ended up extending to a week – and I still didn’t want to leave!

That first golden sunset over the sea had me completely hooked. Let me share the absolute best things to do in Saipan – I’ll give you all my personal favorites and hard-won insider tips to make your trip as magical as mine was.

The Grotto: My Unforgettable Dive into an Underwater Wonderland

Let me tell you about the moment that took my breath away in Saipan – diving into The Grotto. As someone who’s explored dive sites around the world, I can honestly say this natural limestone cavern is unlike anywhere else I’ve ever been.

Picture this: you descend a steep, jungle-lined staircase, heart pounding with anticipation, until suddenly – there it is. A gaping mouth of a cave leading to liquid sapphire so clear it looks Photoshopped.

That first leap into the cool water is a rush I’ll never forget. One second I’m hovering at the surface, the next I’m gliding through what feels like a giant natural aquarium. The visibility is insane – I could see every detail of the underwater tunnels stretching beneath me. On my dive, I spotted:

• A graceful sea turtle that seemed to pose for my GoPro
• A shy reef shark darting between coral formations
• Schools of neon-colored fish dancing in the sunbeams

Pro tip from my experience: Even if you’re not certified (like my travel buddy wasn’t), the snorkeling here is mind-blowing. She floated near the entrance and still saw an incredible variety of marine life.

What I wish I’d known:

1. Morning is magic – I went at 7 AM and had the place to myself
2. Those water shoes I almost skipped? Absolute lifesaver on the slippery rocks
3. Between 10 AM-2 PM, the sunlight creates this ethereal glow underwater – perfect for photos

Local secret I learned: The resident dive masters know all the best nooks for spotting rare creatures. Befriend them and they might show you hidden spots most tourists miss!

That dive changed how I see the ocean – it’s not just a dive site, it’s a portal to another world. Just writing this makes me want to book my next flight back!

Micro Beach: My Secret Slice of Paradise in Saipan

Let me share my favorite little secret in Saipan – Micro Beach. I stumbled upon this gem completely by accident when I was craving an easy beach day, and wow, did it deliver!

Picture this: you step off the main road in Garapan and suddenly find yourself in a postcard – powdery sand so white it sparkles, water in fifty shades of blue, and palm trees swaying to their own island rhythm.

What makes Micro Beach my go-to spot? Three things:

1. Instant gratification – No long trek needed! I could literally roll out of bed at my hotel and be toes-in-sand in 5 minutes flat
2. Swimming perfection – The gentle waves were so calm, even my friend who’s usually nervous in the ocean felt completely safe
3. Sunset therapy – That golden hour glow hitting the water? Pure magic. I may have taken approximately 237 photos

My perfect Micro Beach day looks like this:

• Morning kayak rental to explore the coastline (protip: go early before the breeze picks up)
• Lunch picnic with local kelaguen (that Chamorro BBQ chicken is life-changing)
• Afternoon snorkel session around the rocky edges where colorful fish play hide-and-seek
• Sunset cocktails at the Hyatt’s beach bar – their mango margarita is legendary

Insider knowledge from my multiple visits:

• Tuesday mornings around 8 AM? You’ll likely have the whole beach to yourself
• The left side near the rocks has the best snorkeling – I saw an octopus there last time!
• That beachside coconut vendor who shows up around noon? Worth every dollar

Micro Beach proves good things come in small packages. It’s not the biggest beach in Saipan, but in my book, it’s the most perfectly convenient slice of paradise. Just writing this makes me want to ditch my desk and fly back right now!

American Memorial Park: A Tribute to History & Nature

Let me tell you about the place that unexpectedly became the highlight of my Saipan trip – American Memorial Park. I went expecting just another historical site, but what I found was so much more profound. This isn’t just a park – it’s a living memorial where the whispers of history meet breathtaking natural beauty.

Here’s why this place moved me:

• The WWII memorials gave me chills – reading each name carved in stone made the war’s impact feel heartbreakingly personal
• That magical moment when I biked under a canopy of trees and suddenly emerged to a stunning ocean vista
• Discovering the outdoor gym where I could do sunrise yoga with seabirds as my audience

My perfect day at the park evolved like this:

1. Morning bike rental (Pro tip: Get one with gears – those lagoon-side paths are addictively long!).
2. Quiet time at the memorials – I brought flowers I picked from local vendors to leave at the monuments.
3. Picnic lunch by the water – The mangoes I bought from a roadside stand tasted even sweeter here.
4. Afternoon at the visitor center – Their WWII exhibits surprised me with interactive displays that brought history alive.

Special moments I’ll never forget:

• That golden hour when the entire park glowed pink at sunset
• The elderly local man who shared his wartime stories with me near the flag court
• Finding perfect heart-shaped shells along the mangrove boardwalk (I still have them in my travel journal)

Insider tips from my visits:

• Wednesday evenings often have free cultural performances – I caught an incredible Chamorro dance show
• The eastern mangrove trail at high tide reveals amazing reflections of the clouds
• Park staff told me February is prime time for migratory birds – I’m already planning my return

This park did something rare – it made me reflect deeply while simultaneously filling me with peace. Between the weight of history and the lightness of nature, I left feeling profoundly grateful.

If you visit one “quiet” spot in Saipan, make it this one – just don’t rush through like most tourists do. Stay until the golden light hits the memorials just right… that’s when the magic happens.

Laulau Beach: A Hidden Gem for Snorkeling & Serenity

I’ll never forget the morning I discovered Laulau Beach – it felt like stumbling upon Saipan’s best-kept secret. After winding down a jungle-framed road, I emerged onto a crescent of golden sand where the only footprints were mine and the only sounds were lapping waves and chirping birds. This is where Saipan locals come to truly unwind, and after spending a perfect day here, I completely understand why.

What makes Laulau Beach so magical in my eyes:

• The underwater wonderland – I literally walked three steps into the water and was surrounded by a rainbow of tropical fish
• That authentic local vibe – Watching families grill freshly caught fish made me feel like I’d been let in on island life
• The dramatic scenery – Emerald cliffs draped in jungle vines create the most breathtaking natural amphitheater

How I spent my perfect Laulau day:
🌅 7 AM arrival – Had the entire beach to myself with water so clear I could see every coral formation
🐠 Morning snorkel safari – Spotted parrotfish, clownfish (Nemo!), and even a shy octopus camouflaged in the rocks
🍉 Picnic lunch – Packed local mangoes, shrimp kelaguen, and ice-cold coconuts from the Garapan market
🥾 Afternoon hike – That “secret” trail reward me with panoramic views of the whole bay – worth every sweaty step!

Hard-earned tips from my visit:

• Water shoes are NON-NEGOTIABLE – I learned this after a sharp coral encounter (ouch!)
• Bring twice as much water as you think you’ll need – no shops means no second chances
• Time your visit with low tide for the calmest conditions and best snorkeling
• The left side of the beach has the most vibrant coral gardens

A magical moment I’ll cherish: As I was packing up, a local family invited me to share their barbecue – the best grilled fish and island stories I’ve had anywhere. That’s the real magic of Laulau – it’s not just a beach, but a gateway to Saipan’s warm heart.

Pro tip: Set your alarm early. That magical morning light hitting the water while mist still clings to.

Suicide Cliff: A Powerful Historical Site with Stunning Views

Standing at the edge of Suicide Cliff, with the wind whipping around me and panoramic views stretching to eternity, I experienced one of those rare travel moments that splits your life into “before” and “after.” These aren’t just viewpoints – they’re sacred spaces where the land itself seems to hold its breath, remembering.

What shook me to my core:

• The weight of history – Reading first-hand accounts of WWII’s final days made my stomach drop more than the cliff’s height
• That impossible view – On my visit, the visibility was so clear I could make out buildings on Tinian Island
• The profound silence – Even the chatty tourists in our group fell quiet without prompting.

How I approached these sacred sites:

1. Started at the memorial plaques – I spent 30 minutes just reading before even looking at the view
2. Walked the perimeter slowly – Noticing how the light changed the landscape’s mood by the minute
3. Sat quietly for reflection – Found a shaded bench to journal about the experience

My hard-won advice:

• Timing is everything – 4 PM gave me perfect golden light without the midday heat
• Bring tissues – I wasn’t expecting to get emotional, but the stories got to me
• Wear proper shoes – My flip-flops were a terrible choice on the rocky paths

The moment that haunts me: Watching an elderly Japanese tourist place flowers at Banzai Cliff’s memorial, her quiet sobs mixing with the crashing waves below. This is why we visit places like this – to remember, to honor, and to ensure history isn’t repeated.

Banzai Cliff’s Bittersweet Beauty

Just when I thought I’d processed everything at Suicide Cliff, Banzai Cliff hit me with a whole new wave of emotions. That first glimpse of the endless Pacific crashing against sheer cliffs took my breath away – both from its raw beauty and the knowledge of what happened here.

What surprised me most:

• The power of the ocean – Watching waves explode against the rocks made me feel tiny in the best way
• The unexpected peace – Despite the tragic history, there’s a strange serenity here
• The living memorials – Fresh flowers and origami cranes at the monuments showed how present the past still is

My recommended approach:
🌅 Sunset pilgrimage – Time your visit for when the cliffs glow gold (but come early to find parking)
📿 Find the Buddha statue – This unofficial shrine moved me more than any official monument
📸 Shoot with respect – I waited until there were no other visitors in frame before taking photos

A local’s insight that stayed with me: An elderly Chamorro man told me, “These cliffs aren’t about death – they’re about the value of life.” That perspective transformed my entire visit from somber to uplifting.

Banzai Cliff: Where Ocean Meets History

I’ll never forget the first time I stood at Banzai Cliff, gripping the railing as Pacific waves thundered against the rocks 100 feet below. What struck me wasn’t just the dizzying height, but how the vibrant blue water contrasted with the solemn history etched into these cliffs.

Why this place gripped my soul:

• The raw power of nature – Watching waves explode into geysers of white foam against volcanic rock
• The quiet memorials – Finding origami cranes left by Japanese visitors tucked near the monuments
• That Buddha statue – Worn smooth by countless hands, it’s become an organic tribute I felt compelled to touch

My perfect visit:
4:30 PM – Arrived as the light turned golden
5:00 PM – Sat quietly reading the memorial plaques
5:30 PM – Witnessed the most breathtaking sunset of my trip

What I wish I’d known:

• The right side path leads to better photo angles (safely behind railings)
• Mornings often bring rainbows in the sea spray
• The small donation box helps maintain the site

Mount Tapochau: Touching the Sky

When I reached Saipan’s highest point, two thoughts hit me: “My legs are burning!” and “This is the most incredible view I’ve ever seen!” At 1,555 feet, Mount Tapochau doesn’t just offer views – it delivers a full island panorama that made my jaw drop.

What made the climb unforgettable:

• That first glimpse of Managaha Island’s perfect circle in the turquoise sea
• The sacred silence at the summit cross where locals come to pray
• Spotting my hotel from above like a tiny dollhouse

My adventure to the top:
🚗 First attempt by rental car – Turned back after two giant potholes (learn from my mistake!)
🥾 Successful hike – 45 minutes of sweat rewarded with 360° glory
☕ Sunrise return – Woke at 4 AM to beat the clouds (worth every lost hour of sleep)

Pro tips from my experience:

• Wear hiking shoes with serious grip – the trail gets slippery
• Pack a lightweight jacket – it’s surprisingly cool up there
• Bring binoculars to spot WWII wrecks in the distance
• The white cross makes a perfect frame for selfies

Local legend that gave me chills: Chamorro guides say the mountain’s caves were home to ancient spirits. When the mist rolls in at dawn, it’s easy to believe them.

Mount Tapochau: Saipan’s Highest Peak for Epic Views

I’ll admit it – I wasn’t fully prepared when I set out to conquer Saipan’s highest peak. As someone who considers walking to the hotel ice machine “exercise,” the 1,555-foot ascent was… humbling. But when I finally reached the summit, wheezing but triumphant, the 360-degree view made every burning muscle worth it.

What took my breath away (beyond the climb):

• That first panoramic glimpse – Spotting tiny boats crisscrossing the channel between Saipan and Tinian
• The sacred cross at the summit where locals leave heartfelt offerings
• Morning magic – Watching clouds swirl through the valleys like liquid smoke

My journey to the top (and lessons learned):
🥾 Failed car attempt – My rental sedan bottomed out spectacularly on the third pothole
🚶 Successful hike – 57 minutes of sweat, 3 water breaks, and one very patient guide
🌄 Dawn mission – Waking at 4:30 AM to catch the sunrise (pro tip: bring a headlamp)

What I wish I’d packed:

• More water than I thought possible to drink
• A lightweight windbreaker (it’s chilly up there!)
• Binoculars to spot WWII shipwrecks in the distance

The local legend that gave me chills: My Chamorro guide whispered that ancient spirits still roam the mountain’s caves. When the mist rolled in suddenly, I absolutely believed him.

Lao Lao Bay Golf & Resort: Where Even My Bad Shots Looked Good

As someone who once accidentally drove a golf cart into a water hazard, I never expected to fall in love with a golf course. But Lao Lao Bay isn’t just any course – it’s a cliffside masterpiece where every swing comes with ocean views that belong on postcards.

Why this place dazzled me:

• The “oh wow” factor of teeing off literally over the ocean
• Wildlife encounters – Giant fruit bats soaring overhead like nature’s drone show
• Clubhouse cocktails that made even my triple bogeys enjoyable

My favorite moments:
⛳ Taking lessons from a pro who somehow didn’t laugh at my swing
📸 The 6th hole photo op – So dramatic I didn’t even care about my score
🍹 Sunset drinks on the terrace watching golfers become silhouettes

Insider tips for non-golfers like me:

1. The restaurant’s coconut shrimp is life-changing
2. Thursday evenings often feature live music
3. Ask about their “Sunset Golf Cart Tour” for non-players

The unexpected magic: Realizing you don’t need to love golf to appreciate this place – the views alone are worth the visit. I may have lost a dozen balls in the ocean, but I gained memories that’ll last forever.

LaoLao Bay Golf & Resort: Tee Off in Paradise

Let me be honest – before visiting Lao Lao Bay, my golf experience consisted of mini-putt and the occasional Wii Sports session. But this cliffside paradise isn’t just for golfers – it’s for anyone who appreciates breathtaking ocean views, tropical cocktails, and that feeling of being on top of the world.

Why This Place Stole My Heart:

1. The “Oh My God” Views
I’ll never forget stepping onto the 6th hole tee box (more on this later) and feeling my stomach drop – not from nerves, but from the sheer 200-foot vertical drop to the turquoise ocean below. The course designers basically said: “Let’s take Pebble Beach and crank the drama to 11.”

2. Unexpected Wildlife Encounters
During my sunset round (more like sunset stroll between failed swings), I saw:

• Giant fruit bats with wingspans wider than my golf bag
• Tropical birds in colors that looked photoshopped
• A monitor lizard that stared at my terrible form judgmentally

3. The Clubhouse That’s Worth the Trip Alone
Even if you never touch a club (like me initially), the open-air restaurant serves killer coconut shrimp with a side of panoramic ocean views. Their signature “Eagle’s Nest” cocktail might be why I eventually tried golfing…

My Top Experiences (For Golfers & Non-Golfers Alike):

For Golfers:

• Golden Hour Golf – Book the last tee time when the cliffs glow orange
• Beginner Lessons – Their pros actually made me look semi-competent
• The Famous 6th Hole – Your ball seems to hang in midair before plunging toward the sea

For Non-Golfers Like Me:

• Sunset Cart Tour – Cruise the course without playing (available Tues/Thurs)
• Oceanview Dining – Happy hour here beats any beach bar
• Wildlife Photography – Those fruit bats are surprisingly photogenic

Local Secrets I Learned:

• The 6th hole isn’t just dramatic – it’s where locals propose (I witnessed one!)
• Wednesday mornings often have dolphin sightings from the higher holes
• Their clubhouse makes a mean Chamorro BBQ burger (not on menu – ask for it)

Ladder Beach: Secluded Beauty with a Mysterious Past

I almost missed this hidden gem entirely – and what a tragedy that would’ve been! Named for the rickety wooden ladder that once provided access (now replaced by a slightly less terrifying path), Ladder Beach feels like stepping into your own private tropical paradise with a side of intriguing history.

Why This Became My Favorite Secret Spot:

1. The “Castaway” Vibe
   On my weekday morning visit, I had the entire crescent of perfect white sand completely to myself. The only sounds? Waves lapping against volcanic rocks and the occasional cry of seabirds overhead.
2. Nature’s Playground
   The beach is framed by dramatic black lava formations that create:

• Crystal-clear tide pools teeming with tiny sea creatures
• Natural thrones carved by centuries of waves
• Mini caves perfect for amateur explorers

3. The Hidden WWII Cave
   Following a barely-marked trail (look for the small pile of rocks marking the turnoff), I discovered an authentic WWII cave hideout complete with:

• Fading Japanese inscriptions on the walls
• Rusted metal remnants from the war
• An eerie but fascinating glimpse into history

My Ladder Beach Survival Guide (Learned the Hard Way):

Essential Gear:

• Sturdy water shoes (those volcanic rocks are razor-sharp)
• Wide-brimmed hat (shade is scarce)
• GoPro for tide pool close-ups

Timing is Everything:
✔️ Best at mid-low tide (more tide pools exposed)
✔️ Morning light makes the sand glow
❌ Avoid high tide (most beach disappears)

What to Bring:

• Plenty of water (no facilities anywhere)
• Snacks (you’ll want to stay for hours)
• Small first aid kit (just in case)

Local Secrets I Discovered:

• The large flat rock on the north end makes the perfect picnic table
• Look for heart-shaped holes in the cliffside rocks
• Morning fog often creates magical lighting for photos

A Word of Caution:
The ocean here may look inviting, but the currents are no joke. I watched helplessly as my hat got swept out to sea in seconds – that could’ve been me! Stick to wading in the tide pools.

Pau Pau Beach: Your New Favorite Sunset Spot

Let me tell you about my favorite accidental discovery – Pau Pau Beach. I was killing time before my flight when a taxi driver insisted, “You can’t leave without seeing our local sunset spot.”

What I found was the most authentic beach experience on the island, where the golden hour feels like magic and the vibe is pure Chamorro hospitality.

Why This Beach Stole My Heart

1. The Sunset Show
   I thought I’d seen beautiful sunsets before – until I watched the sky explode in neon pink and tangerine hues over Pau Pau’s glassy waters. The way the colors reflect off the wet sand creates a mirror effect that had me snapping photos like a madwoman.
2. The Local Vibe
   Unlike touristy beaches, here you’ll find:

• Grandmas teaching kids to fish in the shallows
• Uncles playing guitars under palm trees
• The irresistible smell of BBQ wafting through the sea breeze

3. Kid-Friendly Perfection
   The gently sloping shore creates natural wading pools that stay warm long after sunset – perfect for little ones to splash safely.

How to Experience Pau Pau Like a Local

🌅 The Perfect Evening Itinerary
4:30 PM – Arrive early to claim your spot on the soft sand
5:00 PM – Grab BBQ from the weekend vendors (try the chicken kelaguen!)
6:00 PM – Watch the sunset while dipping toes in the bath-warm water
7:00 PM – Stay for stargazing – the Milky Way is visible on clear nights

Must-Bring Essentials

• A large beach mat (the sand sticks to everything)
• Cash for spontaneous food purchases
• Waterproof speaker for impromptu dance parties

Local Secrets I Learned

• The best sunset photos come from the northern rocky point
• Full moon nights create magical silver reflections on the water
• Friday evenings often feature spontaneous bonfires

A Special Moment I’ll Never Forget
On my last visit, a local family invited me to join their picnic after I complimented their BBQ. Three generations shared stories, food, and laughter as the sun dipped below the horizon – the kind of authentic connection you can’t find in any guidebook.

A Love Letter to Saipan: Why This Island Will Steal Your Heart Too

As I sit here scrolling through my Saipan photos—each one bursting with impossibly blue waters, golden sunsets, and my ridiculous snorkel-face grin—I realize this island didn’t just give me a vacation. It gave me a feeling. That giddy, childlike wonder I thought I’d outgrown.

Here’s what I didn’t expect to take home:

• Saltwater in my soul – The Grotto’s liquid sapphire and Micro Beach’s warm waves rewired my definition of beauty
• History in my bones – Standing where warriors once stood at Suicide Cliff changed how I see the world
• Fire in my belly – That first bite of kelaguen at a Pau Pau Beach BBQ sparked a lifelong love affair with Chamorro flavors

To the traveler reading this:
Saipan will surprise you. It’ll lure you in with postcard beaches, then ambush you with:

• The adrenaline rush of leaping into The Grotto’s abyss
• The quiet awe of finding WWII relics in jungle caves
• The unexpected joy of being adopted by a local family for sunset

My final confession?
I came for the Instagram spots. I stayed for the magic—the kind that happens when:

• You’re the only person on Ladder Beach at dawn
• A fruit bat photobombs your golf swing at Lao Lao Bay
• The entire sky cries rainbow during a Mount Tapochau sunrise

Pack your bags, but leave room:

• For seashells from Laulau Beach
• For stories from American Memorial Park’s elders
• For the piece of your heart that will beg to stay

Saipan isn’t just a destination—it’s a living postcard from the Pacific, stamped on your soul. And if you listen closely to those trade winds? They’re whispering “Håfa adai… come back soon.”

P.S. That extra suitcase I bought for all the hot sauce and coconut candy? Worth every penny. You’ve been warned. 🌺